One of the most popular alternatives to the conventional gun belt and hip holster combination is the drop leg holster, which takes design cues from law enforcement and military organizations who utilize them on the job. These devices have a strap that wraps around the lower leg just above the knee, two straps that cross over one another, and a clasp that lies just above the knee to secure the straps. Running appears to be a natural gait while greatly minimizing the pressure on the joints since gravity pulls the leg forward as you move forward under its influence.
By moving the holster from the pistol belt to the thigh, more space is made available for body armor with side plates and pouches, and the belt space itself can be used for other purposes. A high-quality drop-leg holster can improve comfort and movement by assisting in the reduction of muscle strain. Finding the best drop leg holster for your needs might be difficult because of the wide variety of types and designs that are currently available on the market. In order to locate the greatest drop leg holster for your upcoming fast journey, there are a few considerations to make. Here you will be able to learn about some of the most crucial aspects to take into account when looking for this particular item.
What To Consider When Choosing The Best Drop Leg Holsters
There are several things to take into account when buying a new drop leg holster. In the section that follows, we’ll go over some of the most crucial factors to keep in mind as you search for the top drop leg holster.
Intended Use
A drop leg holster is primarily used for self-defense. Knowing how and where you’ll use your gun is crucial before settling on a particular model. For instance, it makes much more sense to buy a robust novel-style holster that won’t obstruct your packing than it would to get a drop leg holster if the intention is to carry a pistol into a luggage at the airport.
There are several excellent options available if you’re looking for a new EDC (everyday carry) handgun holster. However, a drop leg holster can be a better option for people who require a holster for their automobile or workplace, or who just want a backup when traveling. These holsters are simple to attach to a belt or a pant leg, allowing you to conceal your pistol while remaining discreet.
Material
Kydex, leather, and nylon are the most common holster materials. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, and some are ideal for specific occupations while being totally inappropriate for others. This article provides you with the knowledge you need to choose the type of drop leg holster that may be the greatest fit for you.
Size
A drop leg holster should properly wrap around the ankle to allow for natural mobility and posture. These holsters typically come in small, normal, and large sizes.
- Small drop leg holsters typically measure 4 inches wide by 8 inches long and are made for smaller pistols like .380s and 9mm autos.
- Regular drop leg holsters typically measure 5 inches wide by 8 inches long and can fit bigger pistols like .45 ACPs and .40 SWs.
- Large drop leg holsters frequently measure more than 6 inches wide by 8 inches long and are designed for even larger weapons, such as .50 AEAs, .52 Calibers, and .600 Axess.
Weight
A large firearm can be problematic, particularly if you need to draw it repeatedly during a crisis. Fortunately, the majority of drop leg holsters only weigh a few ounces. The average weight of a drop leg holster is between 1 and 2 pounds.
Fit
Make sure the gun is securely fastened and supported. When you’re moving, the drop-leg platform shouldn’t slide out of place or flop around when it’s in the holster. The platform should be simple to move to a position on your thigh where you can quickly draw your pistol while still being low enough for you to pass any side pouches or body armor as you naturally run. Also keep in mind that you might need to draw while seated, on your back, or in other uncomfortable situations.
Safety
Any effective holster will always guard the trigger against unintentional manipulation. Look for holsters that totally shield the trigger from curious onlookers, errant branches, fence wires, and other potential intruders. The higher risk of a soft holster being squeezed on the trigger or perforated due to the more exposed carry position is another reason we do not recommend nylon holsters.
Retention
For a drop-leg holster, active retention (also known as Level II or higher) is essential. Along with being more exposed to grabby hands trying to get unauthorized access, the holster’s thigh position is also much more mobile when moving around while jogging, climbing ladders, leaping fences, etc.
Just getting out of the car puts your pistol grip at risk of catching on a seat or seat belt. While using the retention drills you’ve gotten comfortable with, active retention must be secure enough to prevent an attacker from pulling a pistol. In order for draw times to be equivalent to passive retention draws while under strain, it should also be simple to use.
Durability
When you squeeze or flex the holster with just your hands, it should stay firmly fixed to the drop-leg base. Even while a little flexing is acceptable, it’s not a good sign if it seems like the holster is having trouble staying fastened to the platform. Consider this in addition to your typical movements if you need to belly crawl across the terrain or go to the ground with the suspect. Additionally, the holster’s muzzle end needs to be open to let any moisture or dirt escape.
Cost
When selecting a drop leg holster, this is one of the most important considerations. You should be aware of your budget before making any purchases. To avoid going over budget, you must also make sure you have enough money for it. If something is too pricey, try looking for something less priced with the same features.
Accessories
The capacity of a high-quality drop leg holster to quickly draw a pistol when necessary is one of its distinguishing features. These holsters frequently have unique features, including a thumb hole for quick draws or unique levers that facilitate drawing more quickly than the conventional slide-over-top technique, to achieve this speed. These add-ons can also be useful if you ever need to quickly grab your gun. For instance, a thumb hole enables a faster draw than attempting to line up with the slider if you’re in a confined place and someone starts attacking you.
Types Of Drop Leg Holsters
There is no unique sort of drop leg holster because it is one of the various holster types available on the market. We’ve categorized the options in this guide with the materials that go with drop leg holsters to make it easier for you to choose the ideal one.
Metal holsters
Metal holsters are often made of aluminum, carbon steel, or stainless steel. Despite being heavy and potentially hot if not insulated, these materials are exceedingly strong. These holster variants are typically produced as adapters to other holster types.
Polymer and Kydex blend holsters
Manufacturers may mold the material known as Kydex to incredibly precise specifications. Durable holsters made of Kydex and some other polymer blends practically require no maintenance and just need to be cleaned when they get dirty.
Even after years of use, holsters made of Kydex and other polymers maintain their shape. Unlike leather holsters, polymer holsters don’t require a “”break-in”” time, though you can add a little heat to Kydex to shape it to the precise shape of your gun. Kydex is significantly less expensive than leather and more lightweight. The disadvantage of this type is that pulling a gun from a plastic or Kydex holster can make more noise than pulling a gun from a leather or nylon holster.
Leather holsters
Many individuals still consider leather holsters to be good because they served the rest of the western world well. The standard for years has been leathered since it is so durable and strong. Holsters made of leather are adaptable, comfortable, and silent when drawing a weapon from them. They also gradually conform to your body. However, leather can be expensive, it ages and becomes less supportive over time.
Nylon Holsters
Holsters made with nylon can be very strong. Oftentimes, these holsters feature hook-and-loop fastening, and a stiffener that retains shape so you can alter what you carry. Usually, the least expensive choice and drawing from a nylon holster pouch can be done quietly. Since they are typically not customized for a specific handgun, nylon holsters are seen as being more versatile. However, it might not last as long as other solutions, and less structure frequently equates to decreased security and structural integrity.
How We Chose Our Top Picks Drop Leg Holsters
Many of the low-cost “universal” nylon holsters were omitted from the list of the best drop-leg holsters because they just aren’t protective enough of the weapon and trigger guard in the exposed position of a drop-leg holster. This is not to say that we didn’t take into account a variety of entry-level possibilities for those people who are just beginning their careers out there, and we were happy to learn there are decent selections in the under $100 area, too.
In order to include as many extra possibilities in the evaluation as possible, we made an effort to choose holster and platform combinations that seemed to be the most indicative of what a manufacturer or holster style can provide. We used a generic Glock 19 for each holster in order to maintain consistency, and we only used factory holsters that are widely available. Then, we evaluated each holster for a considerable amount of time while engaging in a variety of non-firing activities and over a long day up in the mountains. We also conducted shooting drills and retention drills using a variety of positions based on our military/LE training and expertise.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drop Leg Holsters
Why would someone use a drop-leg holster?
In order to prevent body armor that is bulky and has side plates or pockets from getting in the way when you’re attempting to draw your gun, a drop-leg holster lowers the gun into the upper- to mid-thigh.
How do you wear a drop leg holster?
The ideal method to wear a drop leg holster is with your pants tucked into the boot and your shirt open over it. This will lessen the possibility of an unintentional discharge while still protecting you in the event that you have to use force to defend yourself.
Are thigh holsters safe?
The last thing you need is for your gun to fall into the wrong hands, so you should pick a holster that keeps it safe. Many professionals believe that thigh holsters are simply too open and inappropriate for dangerous situations.
Can you open-carry with a drop-leg holster?
Yes, drop-leg holsters are great for the job if you’re allowed to openly carry.